Activities of Daily Living (ADL)

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are basic self-care tasks essential for independent living. They include activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, transferring (moving from bed to chair), and maintaining continence. Assessing ADLs helps determine an individual’s ability to perform everyday functions independently or whether they need assistance. ADL assessments are often used in healthcare to plan appropriate support or services, ensuring safety and quality of life. These activities are fundamental to daily functioning and provide a baseline for evaluating a person's physical and cognitive health.